Can my landlord place cameras in the common areas of my Idaho apartment building?

Yes, cameras are allowed in shared spaces like hallways, gyms, or parking lots, but not in private areas.

Is audio recording with cameras legal in Idaho rental buildings?

No, audio recording usually requires at least one party's consent and is not typically permitted in common areas without clear notice.

What should I do if I think a camera is violating my privacy rights?

Write to your landlord about your concern. If unresolved, use the Idaho Human Rights Commission or Attorney General's complaint forms.

Does my landlord have to tell me if there are cameras?

There is no strict legal requirement, but many landlords disclose surveillance in building policies or leases.

Where are hidden cameras strictly not allowed in Idaho rentals?

Hidden cameras are not permitted in private areas such as bathrooms, bedrooms, or inside individual rental units.

Idaho Laws on Surveillance Cameras in Apartment Common Areas

Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Idaho published June 21, 2025

Surveillance cameras are increasingly common in Idaho apartment buildings and rental complexes. If you're a renter, you may wonder what Idaho law says about cameras in shared spaces, and what rights and protections you have. Understanding these laws helps protect your privacy and maintain a safe living environment.

Are Cameras Allowed in Apartment Common Areas in Idaho?

Idaho does not have a state law that specifically prohibits landlords from installing surveillance cameras in common areas of rental properties, such as hallways, laundry rooms, entryways, gyms, or parking lots. However, privacy laws and federal guidelines limit where cameras can be placed and what they can record.

Cameras are usually permitted in shared or public spaces to promote safety or prevent crime.
Cameras are not allowed in areas where tenants have a reasonable expectation of privacy, like inside individual units, bathrooms, or locker rooms.^[1]
Idaho Code § 18-6609 makes it illegal to secretly photograph or record anyone in a place where they expect privacy.

There is no specific requirement for landlords to notify tenants about cameras in common areas, but best practices recommend informing tenants about their use in the building's policies or lease agreement.

What About Audio Recording?

Idaho law distinguishes between video and audio recording. Idaho is a "one-party consent" state for audio recordings, meaning at least one person involved in a conversation must consent to the recording.^[2] Landlords generally cannot use cameras with audio recording in common areas unless they clearly disclose this and obtain appropriate consent.

When to Raise a Concern

If you believe a camera is placed in a private area or is recording audio without consent, you may have a valid complaint. Document your concerns and request review by your landlord or property manager. If the issue isn't resolved, you can seek help from Idaho's fair housing or consumer protection authorities.

Relevant Laws and Regulations

Idaho Code § 18-6609 – Video Voyeurism, which prohibits secret photography or video of people where privacy is expected
Idaho Code § 18-6702 – Interception of oral communications (Idaho "one-party consent" law)
Idaho Residential Landlord and Tenant Act for general tenant rights

While the Idaho Residential Landlord and Tenant Act does not specifically mention cameras, its general policies help define renter rights and privacy protections.

How to Address Privacy Concerns

If you have questions about surveillance cameras in your building, here are key steps to follow:

Review your lease agreement for rules or disclosures about cameras.
Ask your landlord or property manager for clarification if you're unsure where cameras are placed or what they're recording.
If you believe a camera invades your privacy, submit a written request to your landlord to address the concern.
If necessary, file a complaint with the relevant Idaho agency (see Help and Support below).

Currently, there are no state-specific official complaint forms solely for video surveillance in rentals. However, if you believe your privacy rights or fair housing rights have been violated, you may use these official forms:

Idaho Human Rights Commission Discrimination Complaint Form
Use this if you feel camera use leads to discrimination based on a protected category (e.g., race, disability).
Find the form and instructions on the Idaho Human Rights Commission Complaints page.
Consumer Protection Complaint Form
Utilize this form if you feel your landlord's actions are unfair, deceptive, or violate your privacy rights.
The official form is provided by the Idaho Attorney General's Office – Consumer Protection.

In these scenarios, describe specifically how surveillance has impacted your privacy or rights.

If you feel unsafe or believe a camera is hidden in a private area, contact local law enforcement or the Idaho Attorney General’s Office for further advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my landlord put cameras in the hallway or laundry room of my Idaho apartment?
Yes. Idaho law permits visible cameras in common areas such as hallways and laundry rooms, so long as these cameras do not capture audio without proper consent and do not intrude on private spaces.
Do landlords in Idaho need to notify tenants about surveillance cameras?
While there is no specific law requiring notification, best practices and some lease agreements may require or recommend that landlords inform tenants about cameras in common areas.
Are hidden cameras allowed anywhere in my rental building?
No. Idaho law prohibits hidden cameras in areas where tenants have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as inside units, bathrooms, or changing areas.
Can a tenant ask for a camera to be removed?
Yes. If you believe a camera violates your privacy rights, you can request its removal in writing. If your concern is not addressed, contact Idaho’s relevant consumer or housing agencies.
Who oversees residential tenancy disputes in Idaho?
While Idaho does not have a separate housing tribunal, disputes are typically handled in the county court system. Guidance and resources are available via the Idaho Supreme Court Self-Help Center.

Conclusion: Know Your Idaho Privacy Rights

Idaho generally permits cameras in common areas, but not in private spaces.
Audio recording is more strictly regulated than video under Idaho law.
If you believe your rights are violated, document concerns and seek help from state agencies or the courts.

Understanding these protections helps Idaho renters maintain both security and privacy.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Idaho Attorney General’s Tenant-Landlord Resource Center: Official information and forms for rental disputes.
Idaho Human Rights Commission – File a Discrimination Complaint
Idaho Supreme Court Self-Help Center: Guides for addressing landlord/tenant disputes through the courts.
Idaho Attorney General Consumer Protection Complaint Form